An assistive reading device for visually impaired users comprises a sheet-like member containing a photo-active material. The sheet-like member responds to light patterns representing data from a patterned light source to form tactile shapes on its surface. The visually impaired user obtains information by touching the tactile shapes. Preferably, the photo-active material is a layer of cross linked azobenzene liquid-crystalline polymers. The assistive reading device preferably is an output device for a computer.